In recent years, a once-taboo topic has been making waves in unexpected places – the boardroom. Psychedelics, long associated with counterculture and recreational use, are gaining attention for their potential as cognitive enhancers and tools for personal development. Accordingly, for many professionals, microdosing psychedelics has become a critical part of their performance and mental wellness journey.
I am the perfect example of this trend: a former banker and venture capitalist, I spent 20 years in the financial services and technology industries. During my tenure, I have allocated several billion dollars to tech investments, led innovation for a large multinational corporation, and launched several companies. To stay competitive and improve my mental health, I strategically introduced micro-dosing psilocybin (magic mushrooms) into my routine. After doing so, I experienced tremendous results that have prompted a new growth sprout in my career.
In this article, I delve on the growing phenomenon of psychedelics in the boardroom.
The Changing Landscape:
As the legal framework and societal attitudes toward psychedelics shift, a growing number of professionals, including executives and board members, are exploring these substances for their reported cognitive and emotional benefits. This changing landscape has prompted a deeper exploration of the potential impact on performance, decision-making, and personal growth within the corporate realm.
The Psychedelic Gentrification:
The resurgence of interest in psychedelics has been referred to as the “psychedelic renaissance.” From my perspective we are past that point and have entered the area of the “psychedelic gentrification” where researchers and enthusiasts alike are exploring the therapeutic potential of substances like psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA. Psychedelics that were used in the past in large quantities for “trips” by hippies are now used daily in microdoses by CEOs, VCs, Moms, and everyday people for performance, mental health, happiness, and personal transformation.
As more and more studies support that these substances offer unique benefits, including enhanced creativity, reduced anxiety, and improved emotional well-being, this is the performance enhancement I have been witnessing in the boardroom:
- Cognitive Benefits
Psychedelics have been linked to major cognitive benefits such as improved problem-solving, creativity, and heightened awareness. In the high-stakes environment of the boardroom, where strategic decision-making is paramount, these competitive advantages are being exploited by more and more business executives. When ordinary performance is no longer enough, microdosing psychedelics can bring the extra oomph, allowing professionals to stay on top.
- Stress Reduction
High-pressure boardroom settings are breeding grounds for stress and burnout. When used mindfully, psychedelics have shown great results in reducing stress and anxiety. This opportunity for anxiety management and stress reduction is another one of the reasons high-powered executives turn to microdosing psychedelics. In the brave new corporate world, being calm and in control is a prerequisite to access the top job; long gone are the days of unhinged managers.
- Enhanced Emotional Intelligence
Effective leadership requires a high degree of emotional intelligence. By fostering a deeper understanding of one’s own emotions and those of others, microdosing psychedelics leads to a more empathetic leadership style better aligned with current societal (and shareholders) expectations.
Over the past couple of years, I have witnessed a wide range of results when it comes to the mindful and strategic use of psychedelics by business professionals. From sky-rocketing performance to increased collaboration abilities and decreased social anxiety, these improvements enabled executives to work more efficiently, get better outcomes, and access bigger opportunities. Microdosing psychedelics has opened the door to more success, passion, and happiness at work and in life.
Navigating Legal and Ethical Considerations:
While the potential benefits of psychedelics in the boardroom are exciting, legal and ethical considerations are paramount. The current legal status of psychedelics varies widely, and organizations must navigate a complex regulatory landscape. Compliance with local laws, workplace policies, and ethical standards is tricky for executives looking to benefit from the practice of microdosing psychedelics.
Biohacking Hits the Boardroom(Opens in a new browser tab)
The Importance of Mindful Practices:
For those considering the incorporation of psychedelics into their professional lives, mindfulness and intentionality are crucial. I could not put the emphasis enough on the importance of creating a supportive environment for this practice. Combining microdosing psilocybin with tapping meditation, journaling, visualization, and guided meditation is the key to realizing long-term benefits.
The exploration of psychedelics in the boardroom represents a significant shift in how professionals approach cognitive enhancement and personal development. While the benefits are exciting, the legality of the practice makes it a challenge for most. As societal attitudes continue to evolve, we can expect the conversation around psychedelics in the boardroom to intensify. With a thoughtful and informed approach, business leaders can navigate this uncharted territory, unlocking new dimensions of performance, creativity, and personal growth in the process. The intersection of psychedelics and corporate culture will likely become a focal point for discussions on innovation, well-being, and leadership in the years to come.
BIO:
Peggy Van de Plassche spent 20 years in the financial services and technology industries as an executive, venture capitalist, board member, advisor, entrepreneur and public speaker. Peggy now focuses her time and energy on the psychedelic industry. She is the founder of The Microdose Diet and The Brain Power Microdose. Her book, MORE! The Microdose Diet – The 90 day plan for More Success, Passion, and Happiness will be published in May 2024 by Simon & Schuster. An experienced public speaker, she participated in more than 50 global events. Peggy’s latest speaking engagement on “Microdosing for More Success, Passion and Happiness” has generated tremendous engagement. You can follow her work on Substack, Linkedin, Apple Podcast, YouTube and IG.
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